Best Western

By Bonnie McMilllen 

There are two notes in the front of the used  
Jane Kenyon Poetry book. One note was there when  
I bought it, the other I guess I slipped in later. 
 
“To Jimmy” from “Sara and Ed,” the writer of the note  
had lovely writing and said they knew Jane Kenyon who  
was a friend of theirs, was funny and full of life. 
 
The writing is so beautiful I wonder, is this a real note  
or a fake one added to sell the book.  
Then I realize that is silly. 

The other note, I wrote when the hospital called, we were  
on vacation, I grabbed the note paper at the Best Western  
and quickly wrote, Kelly N.P. Transplant team,  
“Not a candidate for transplant.” 

I couldn't throw the note away, I tucked it in this treasured book of poetry.  
when I run across it now and then I think of you and how sad  
that news.